Fun activities for 9-11 year-olds

Looking for fun and age-appropriate activities to keep your 9-11 year-olds entertained? We've compiled a list of engaging and entertaining ideas for kids in this age range.

Things to do with kids: Fun activities for 9-year-olds

Explore the great outdoors

How about letting your 9-year-old express their creativity by setting up easels outdoors? They can paint pictures of the scenery or anything they dream up while enjoying the fresh air.

Visit a science museum

A local science museum can be a great day out. It's the perfect place to discover cool and intriguing things and explore in a new environment.

Play “call my bluff”

Looking for some indoor entertainment? Grab a pen and paper, and let's play Call My Bluff! Here's how:

1. Each player writes down a word and its definition.

2. One player reads their word, and the others guess if the definition is true or bluff.

3. Points are awarded for correctly guessing or fooling others.

4. Get those brain cells working and enjoy some simple, fun times at home! 

Start a shared project

Read up on fun hobbies you and your child can do together. Or take on a creative co-project like gardening. It's an engaging, active, and fun way to spend time together.

Cook together

Why not get in the kitchen and whip up something delicious as a family? It's a great way to teach kids basic life skills and share some laughs along the way.

DIY craft day

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Rain or shine, set up a DIY craft day at home where the kids have free reign to make their own creations.

Throw a dance party

Turn up the music and have a dance party right in your living room. It's a fun way to get grooving!

Build a fort

Grab some blankets and pillows and build a fort. This classic and cozy activity never goes out of style.

Take a bike ride

Seize a sunny day and go on a bike ride around the neighborhood. It's the perfect way to get some exercise and fresh air.

Create a worry monster

If your child has been feeling a little anxious, creating a worry monster might help. They can write down their worries and feed them to the monster.

Build a fairy house

Building a fairy house is a fun and creative activity. They can use materials from around the house or garden.

Fun activities for 10-year-olds

Library exploration

A trip to the library can be an exercise in independence and imagination. Let kids wander and see what genres they gravitate to. Task them with finding books in different sections. And definitely check out a few new books to read when you get home! 

Park adventures

Why not spend an afternoon at a local park? Let the kids run wild on the playground, have a picnic, or lie on the grass and soak up the outdoors.

Host a “play date”

But don’t call it that! Kids this age just want to hang out. Building social skills is pivotal at this age.  Invite some besties for the day and let them run their own show with lawn games, sports, board games, and other interactive fun.

Nature trail walk

Try a new local nature trail. It's a chance for kids to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Pottery painting

Got any old plant pots or jars lying around? Have your kids give them a fresh paint job! 

Zoo excursion

A trip to the zoo is always a hit. They can see all their favorite animals and learn about different species. Ask if there are any new baby animals to meet! 

Scavenger hunt

Organize a scavenger hunt at home. Kids this age love a little mystery and intrigue. Searching for clues can keep them entertained for hours.

Board game night

It’s tried and true for a reason. Game nights are a genuinely engaging way to get everyone in the family to connect and laugh for the whole night together.

Swimming fun

If it's warm enough outside, a day at the pool is always a good idea. Kids can swim, splash around, or learn new swimming skills. It’s a surefire way to get them to bed early, too.

Movie marathon

The best thing about movies at home? You can afford to watch as many as you want! Let the kids pick out their favorite films and have a movie marathon at home. Popcorn is a must.

Bake some tasty treats

Spend some time baking a special dessert together in the kitchen. Whether it's cookies, cupcakes, or a signature cake, kids this age love to mix it up. 

Fun activities for 11-year-olds

Create a comic book

Encourage your 11-year-old to create their own comic book. All they need is some paper, pencils, and their imagination.

Make recycled T-shirt bracelets

If you're into crafts, here's a fun project for you: make recycled T-shirt bracelets! Not only is it a great way to reuse old clothing, but it's also a fantastic way to get creative and show off your style. Follow these steps to make your own unique bracelets:

1. Gather old T-shirts you no longer wear.

2. Cut the T-shirts into thin strips, about 1 inch wide.

3. Stretch each strip to give it a curled look.

4. Braid or twist the strips together to create your bracelet.

5. Tie the ends securely and trim any excess fabric.

6. Voila! You've just created a fashionable and eco-friendly accessory.

Give it a try, and let your creativity shine! 

Time for karaoke night!

Most kids this age love to belt out tunes. But if they’re shy about doing it at home, make it a family affair. Grab an inexpensive karaoke microphone, or see if your smart TV has a karaoke channel. Kids can sing their favorite songs and put on a show for the family.

Go stargazing

Spend an evening mesmerized by the starry night sky. You can even bring a telescope or binoculars and learn about different constellations.

Write a story

Kids this age can handle longer, more focused activities. Encourage them to write their own short story. It's a great way to practice writing skills and express their creativity.

Take a cooking class

For a more grown-up spin on cooking together, sign up for a cooking class. It’s a fun new challenge you can take on together that also delivers a delicious meal.

Splurge on an amusement park

If you're up for a day trip, amusement parks are a no-brainer for 11-year-olds. They can test out their thrill skills by riding roller coasters, playing arcade games, and running around to find cotton candy.

Embrace the magic of your 9-11 year olds

There are endless possibilities for fun activities to do with 9-11 year olds. Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor options, there's something for every kid in this age range. 

FAQs:

Q: Are these activities suitable for all 9-11-year-olds?

A: All of these activities are generally age-appropriate for this range, but it's important to consider the maturity and interests of your child before engaging in any activity.

Q: Can I modify these activities for younger or older children?

A: Absolutely. Depending on their abilities and interests, many of these activities can be adjusted to suit younger or older kids.

Q: How much supervision is needed for these activities?

A: The level of supervision needed may vary for each activity. Use your judgment and ensure the safety of your child at all times.

Q: Are there any outdoor options for these age groups?

A: Yes, several outdoor activities are listed for each age group. However, it's important to consider the weather and safety precautions before participating in any outdoor activity.

Q: Can these activities be done on a budget?

A: Many of these activities can be done without spending much (or any) money. But we’ve included a few splurge-worthy hits that might require purchasing materials or admission fees.

Q: Can I do these activities with a group of kids?

A: Absolutely. These activities are great for families, friends, or even larger groups. Just make sure to adjust the materials and supervision accordingly.

Want more budget-friendly tips and tricks for everyday life? Check out Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.